Populaire Modern Bistro

3 companions and I dined at Populaire Modern Bistro in South Coast Plaza on 2/21/24 and I ordered the prix fixe menu. We bought a bottle of wine separately. The PF menu was $65 per person and well worth it. Everything was spectacular. The blending of flavors with the heirloom carrots was unique. I'm not normally a huge fan of tartare normally, but it was really flavorful. The beef cheek was melt-in-your-mouth tender and even the rice pudding - which I can normally take or leave - had some wonderful, unexpected flavors. Don't be fooled by the "bistro" label. This was definitely a cut above the normal bistro fare of steak and frites or Croque Monsieur. Our server was warm and efficient. She was friendly enough to stop and talk but took her cue from us, which was much appreciated. The location used to be part of the Corner Bakery chain. It was remodeled in part, but it's in South Coast Plaza mall so not a ton of atmosphere. Once you taste the food, you won't care!

Service is above and beyond. Curtis shared his passion for the menu which contains many gems. The duck breast with puréed beets, octopus, and French onion soup toast are extraordinary! We will definitely be returning.

Located next to Macy's at south coast plaza on the 2nd floor. The food is really good. Portions are on the smaller side and the menu selection isn't the biggest. Worth a try.

The food was AMAZING, the Croque Madame delicious, Ladies Who Lunch salad was super size and stellar, Spanish octopus so flavorful! Our server was really great and cheerful. I took off one star on Atmosphere because the music was not only loud but terrible and not appropriate at all for a lovely French bistro. Listening to MC Hammer and Billy Idol whilst I try to enjoy a Parisian lunch just didn't set the right atmosphere at all. A little French Cafe music please!

蛮好喝的意大利咖啡

Came here for a nice dinner for myself. Food was great. The servers were attentive and friendly. I sat outside enjoying my food. It felt like being in Paris.

Delightful meal. Amy made the experience wonderful. We had the crab salad, octopus, onion soup, and rice pudding. Parking: Ideal parking is between the Macy's Men's store and Macy's on the Bear street side.

Duck entree, steak, and chocolat dessert were near perfection. Appetizers were very good as well. Service was very attentive and friendly. The owner, Nick, came out and chatted with us at the end. Perfect place to go for an excellent yet laid back meal in OC